In a significant development, the Kingdom of Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation recently held the third round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with its Indian counterpart. The meeting, co-chaired by His Excellency Dr. Un Kheang, Secretary of State, and His Excellency Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), took place on March 10, 2025, in Siem Reap province, Cambodia.
The two-day discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations in various sectors, including politics, trade, defense, tourism, culture, education, healthcare, and people-to-people exchange. Both sides expressed their commitment to advancing cooperation in these areas, with a particular emphasis on expanding multilateral frameworks and international forums.
On politics and diplomacy, the two delegations underscored the importance of high-level visits and bilateral interactions, including a meeting of the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. They also explored ways to elevate cooperation levels between Cambodia and India in a suitable time, considering the expansion of multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.
Economic relations were another key area of discussion, with both sides acknowledging the potential for increased trade and investment between Cambodia and India. The Cambodian delegation thanked the Indian government for providing assistance through line of credit, grant aid, and capacity building programs, while the Indian side reiterated its continued support for Cambodia’s socio-economic development.
Defense cooperation was also a significant aspect of the discussions, with both sides expressing their commitment to strengthening defense ties. They emphasized the importance of information sharing and close collaboration in combating transnational crimes, human trafficking, and online scamming.
The two delegations also touched upon socio-cultural cooperation, noting with satisfaction an active exchange between Cambodia and India in heritage conservation. Other potential areas of cooperation, including payment, ICT, technology, and innovation, were also discussed.
Apart from bilateral relations, the two sides committed to expanding cooperation in multilateral frameworks and international forums, such as ASEAN-India mechanism, Mekong-Ganga cooperation, and United Nations. They exchanged views extensively on regional and international issues of common concern and interests.
The third Foreign Office Consultation was held in a friendly atmosphere, with a candid discussion and mutual understanding reflecting the common aspirations to strengthen and expand cooperation between Cambodia and India in both bilateral and multilateral frameworks.
The Cambodian side and Indian side agreed to convene the fourth round of FOC in India on a mutually convenient date, marking an important step towards further strengthening their ties. The outcome of this meeting underscores Cambodia’s commitment to advancing its relations with key partners like India, particularly in the context of expanding regional cooperation and promoting development and peace in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways from the Third Foreign Office Consultation
- Promoting high-level visits and bilateral interactions to advance bilateral relations.
- Expanding economic cooperation, including trade, investment, and people-to-people exchange.
- Strengthening defense ties, including information sharing and collaboration in combating transnational crimes.
- Enhancing socio-cultural cooperation, particularly in heritage conservation.
- Expanding multilateral frameworks and international forums to promote development and peace in the Asia-Pacific region.
The third Foreign Office Consultation marks an important milestone in Cambodia-India relations, solidifying their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in various sectors. As the two countries continue to navigate complex regional and global dynamics, their cooperation will play a crucial role in promoting stability, prosperity, and peace in the Asia-Pacific region.